Why the Traditional View of Hell Still Matters Today

A Pastoral Reflection for the UCC Family

(Internet photo)

Over the past weeks, online discussions, sparked again by a well-known Christian podcast, have brought renewed attention to the topic of annihilationism. Many believers are asking sincere questions about the final judgment and what the Bible actually teaches. As your pastors, we want to guide you with clarity, gentleness, and a commitment to God’s Word.

1. Jesus Spoke About Hell to Warn Us in Love

Jesus spoke more about hell than any other person in Scripture. Not to terrorize us, but to call us to Himself in love.

• “…the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matt. 13:42)

• “…the fire that is not quenched.” (Mark 9:43)

• “They have no rest, day or night.” (Rev. 14:11)

These are sobering words, yet they come from the Savior who laid down His life so that we would never have to face this judgment.

2. The 1689 Confession Helps Us Summarize Biblical Truth

As a church shaped by Reformed theology, we look to the 1689 London Baptist Confession as a faithful summary of Scripture. Regarding the final judgment, it states:

“The wicked… shall be cast aside into everlasting torments… punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord.” — 1689 LBCF 32.2

This is not a cold doctrine. It is a sober reminder of God’s justice, and the greatness of His mercy in Christ.

3. Why This Matters for Our Faith and Mission

Pastor and theologian Tim Keller writes:

“If we lose the doctrine of hell, we lose the idea that our actions have consequences, that justice matters, and that God’s love is more than sentimentality.”— The Importance of Hell

The reality of eternal judgment does not diminish God’s love, it reveals its depth. It shows us the seriousness of sin and the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice.

For us at UCC, this doctrine fuels compassion, not pride. We grieve over the lost, pray for their salvation, and proclaim Christ with urgency and hope.

4. A Pastoral Encouragement to Our Church Family

As these discussions continue online, let us respond with:

• Humility, recognizing that many are genuinely wrestling

• Truthfulness, grounding our beliefs in Scripture, not trends

• Compassion, remembering that real people, not theories, are at stake

May this conversation lead us not into fear but into deeper worship. In Christ, we are saved fully, freely, and forever.

Grace and peace,

Your UCC Pastoral Team